Greetings everyone,
Following last Friday’s “Fundamentals First & 2026 Roadmap” announcement, I realized I didn’t explicitly state that the update would be delivered in two distinct installments.
The second part will explore our mid-to-long-term trajectory, detailing features currently undergoing rigorous R&D and validation. This includes major milestones like modding support, multiplayer functionality, AI-driven NPCs, and the expansion of Canvas Town (alongside the Fate Engine). Please keep in mind that these goals may shift as development evolves. Each pillar is being managed by a specialized studio team, and we have proactively expanded our workforce to ensure these ambitions stay on track.
Part 2 will be published this Friday.
Part 1: Committed milestones scheduled for 2026 delivery.
Part 2: Long-term vision and features currently in active research and development.
Today is a landmark Wednesday—and a perfect moment for a personal update.
I wanted to write a sincere note of gratitude to everyone who made 2025 the most transformative year of my life. This isn’t a technical update; it’s something from the heart.
Through the journey of inZOI, 2025 became the year I redefined my philosophy on game creation. Previously, my process involved intense internal debates or solitary sprints until an idea finally crystallized. This year, for the first time, I discovered the profound value of building a game in tandem with the community. Constant communication has revealed a level of meaning I hadn’t experienced before.
My roots are in a very secluded, rural area. Growing up, I often went barefoot until I started school. It was a quiet, solitary existence. Perhaps because of those beginnings, I remain naturally introverted and shy, often hesitant to socialize even when invited. I had never touched social media until very recently, opening an X account only at the suggestion of a friend. I was never someone who found “communication” effortless.
For me, stepping into the spotlight—conducting interviews, meeting players face-to-face, and integrating your feedback—represented a massive personal shift. A turning point occurred during an interview with a prominent Korean creator. The producer remarked, “I’ve never seen a developer speak about their project with such genuine joy. Continue to build this while staying in constant dialogue with your audience.”
That didn’t feel like mere praise; it felt like a roadmap for a better way to work. It is a major reason why we committed to the Early Access model and our current collaborative development style.
Much like a car designer isn’t always the most skilled driver, I believe that while I created this game, those who play it most deeply—you—understand its nuances best. Early Access has become a source of true happiness for me because we are refining this world together.
My son is now embarking on his own journey in game development, and we often discuss the craft and the lifestyle it demands. He once asked me the most difficult question: “What talent do I need to succeed? Do I have what it takes?”
Success in this field is rare. Most of a developer’s life is spent walking quietly through periods of indifference and trial. In many ways, our professional struggles reflect the challenges of life itself. My answer to him was this:
“I don’t possess a rare, singular talent either. Success is never guaranteed. But if you truly love the act of creation, then you are a developer. That passion allows you to endure the journey. Whatever you pursue, do it in a way that feels right to you.”
Because of inZOI, I now advocate for the Early Access philosophy: “The hardest part of success is identifying what the public truly resonates with. You find that answer through dialogue. You must find joy in making others happy through your creations.”
Navigating a path where no one has the answers is daunting. However, engaging with the community early helped me stop carrying that uncertainty alone. It made the process feel like a shared adventure rather than a solitary burden.
The greatest gift you’ve given me is the realization that development doesn’t have to be a lonely endeavor. You’ve made me feel the power of collaboration, and I can now pass that wisdom on to my son.
For that, I am truly grateful.
As we look toward 2026, I hope you can leave your 2025 burdens behind. I believe every life is a gift, and we are here to discover its inherent value. In the coming year, I hope you take a meaningful step toward the life you envision. If you choose to greet each morning with a commitment to happiness, no hardship can truly break your spirit. If something is meant to be, it will eventually find its way.
Thank you.
K.jun
P.S. I wanted to share a small token of my appreciation. I’ve decided to use Canvas as a platform to deliver gifts directly to you. It’s a modest gesture, and since I’ve rushed to set this up without a dedicated system, I hope the process is seamless. If this goes well, I look forward to preparing more surprises in the future.
New Year’s Gift: The “Winter Classic” Collection
- Winter Classic Nordic Scarf
- Winter Classic Knit Gloves
- Winter Classic Wish Earmuffs
Download the collection here: InZOI Canvas – Winter Classic Gift